Assistant Director of Graduate and International Admissions

South Dakota State University (SDSU) is looking for a motivated and people-centered individual to help shape the future of enrollment as the Assistant Director of Graduate and International Admissions. This role will be critical in advancing the strategic enrollment management plan of the university as well as continuously helping to build the next generation of Jackrabbits. This is a 12-month, full-time ,benefits-eligible position is located in Brookings SD.

SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities. Enrollment Management at SDSU serves as the primary gateway for prospective students by facilitating a smooth and transparent application and enrollment process. The unit engages in active recruitment and outreach efforts while collaborating closely with academic departments, financial aid and other administrative units to ensure a seamless experience for prospective and admitted students.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Assistant Director provides key operational support for graduate and international student recruitment through admission processing and enrollment initiatives. This position serves as a key SDSU representative to prospective students and families through recruitment territory management and coordination of recruitment activities. This role will also be responsible for developing and fostering relationships with academic departments as well as external stakeholders to the university. Above all, the Assistant Director will work to ensure that the admissions process is a positive experience from inquiry through enrollment.

BENEFITS:

SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 6% matching, 10 hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines.

QUALIFICATIONS

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree by start date.
• Three or more years of progressively responsible experience in admissions, recruitment, enrollment management, international education, or a closely related field.
• Experience using CRM systems, student information systems, or related technology platforms.
• Strong project management and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational and presentation skills.
• Effective written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills
• Valid driver’s license and Valid US Passport, or ability to obtain both within 30 days of hire, and willingness to travel domestically and internationally and work evenings and weekends as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration, International Education, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Ability to analyze data and use information to support enrollment decisions.
• Experience with graduate admissions and/or international student recruitment.
• Experience using Slate CRM.
• Knowledge of SEVIS regulations, F-1 visa processes, and international credential evaluation.
• Experience managing educational agents, international partnerships, or sponsored student programs.
• Experience with mentoring, providing work direction, and/or supervision.
• Experience developing enrollment strategies and recruitment plans.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Position closes September 10, 2026.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

SDState accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this job.” This system will guide you through the electronic application form. This employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, curriculum vitae, and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references.Email applications will not be accepted.Please contact SDState Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with this process.

Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to, successful completion of a criminal background check.

SDState is a tobacco free environment. It is the policy of the University to maintain a drug-free environment and to thereby establish, promote, and maintain a safe and healthy working and learning environment for employees and students. This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 4:14.

For questions on the position, contact Daniel Saud at Daniel.Saud@sdstate.edu.

South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant access mission. SDSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to, and SDSU prohibits unlawful discrimination of all legally protected classes in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing HR@sdstate.edu. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact: Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: (605) 688-4128.